March/April Issue due out on April 15th 2017 - I'll See You Then!  Happy Spring!

        JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 BLOG

      A good book is the best of friends, the same today and forever.  Martin Farquhar Tupper 1810-1889                       

A TRIP TO KOREA AND JAPAN

Korean Girl

I'm going to start with South Korea and then move on to Japan. My friend Charlene William and her friend Sally traveled to the far east this past fall.  South Korea was a new adventure for both but these two travelers have both been to Japan before and looking forward to more return visits.  They loved both countries. You know that old saying that a picture is worth a 1000 words so I decided you'd enjoy learning about these fascinating things through Charlene's marvelous photography. 

Korea -
Charlene and her friend Sally arrived in South Korea during a festival and captured these photos of these huge pair of dragons made out of chrysanthemums.  What marvels!

   

This is the full length of each dragon

Notice the size of the dragon compared to the people and buildings to get a grasp on the actual size of the creature.

Charlene and Sally visited an island off South Korea that still has wild Mongolian horses and while they were there visited a museum for teddy bears.  They went in, not knowing what to expect, and discovered a real treat. South Koreans, it turns out are crazy about teddy bears. Take a look at these:



THE BEATLES



TEDDY BEAR ELVIS



Ghandi  Teddy Bear

Queen Elizabeth II Teddy Bear

I hope you enjoyed the bears and the elaborate costumes made for them - those do belong in a museum.


I was told that South Korea has two Teddy Bear Museums and China has one.  Who knew??


When I saw these pictures of a Korean Wedding Dress I had to include these.  The embroidery is magnificent.  I love the contrasting parts of sleeves in a white background.

Back of Wedding Dress

Front of Wedding Dress

ON TO JAPAN   

Japanese Girl

While visiting Kyoto, Japan Charlene discovered that young women can rent kimonos on the weekend and stroll through the parks and city in costume. What a fun idea!  You can see these young women are truly having a good time.  Note: They are taking selfies!  If you look closer to the woman on the left - it looks as if she has the face makeup on like a Geisha. 





WHERE ARE ALL THE JAPANESE EMBROIDERY BOOKS??



Lots of embroiderers study Japanese embroidery and I wish new books would be published on this subject. As far as I know there is only one book on the subject available from Search Press: Gray, Julia D. - Traditional Japanese Embroidery -According to tradition, students of Japanese embroidery must watch a master at work and "steal the knowledge". Here, Julia shares her passion for this exquisite craft, revealing her in-depth knowledge of the skills and symbolism involved. Detailed instructions reveal the intricacies of working with silk thread and silk fabric, and clear step-by-step photos show how to create beautiful embroideries.  $21.95

Silk is a highly sought after fabric but who knew you could do this with the cocoons?

Cocoon People

More Cocoon People

How cute is this? 

Charlene discovered this kimono for a bottle of wine here in Phoenix at the Japanese Gardens.

I want one so I will head out for the Japanese Gardens soon.

I discovered some new stuff about these countries. Hope you enjoyed the photos.

Before we leave the Orient I'd like to revisit the subject of dragons.  Nobody does the dragon better than Dorothy Lesher. She teaches the art of dragon needlepoint at the ANG.  I've seen her work in person and she knows how to create a fantasy creature.

 

 

 

 

 

If you are inspired to create your own dragon I've included the following books:

Davies, Paul Bryn - How to Draw Dragons: In Simple Steps - Derived from the idea that all drawing is based upon a simple construction of lines and shapes, this exciting guide teaches aspiring artists how to draw popular subjects - this one dragons. You only need to follow the easy step-by-step instructions to draw highly detailed pictures of fearsome dragons and flying, fire-breathing beasts in action-packed scenes.  $9.95




Murphy, Pat - Paper Flying Dragons - This book includes 12 fearsome, stunning paper dragons to fold and fly and illustrated, step-by-step instructions. Send the Mountain

Dragon soaring, glide the Sea Dragon low over the ocean, or make a flock of hatchlings: baby dragon toys as fast and fierce as the grownups. The book includes little known facts about dragons and their history.  $16.99




Reinhart, Matthew and Robert Sabuda - Dragons and Monsters - These two master paper engineers unfold the legends and lore of cultures around the world to reveal in wonderful pop-ups such creatures as dragons, a Kraken, a gorgon, and more.  $29.95








If you are crazy for kimonos I've included a few books you might want to peruse:

Milhaupt, Terry Satsuki - Kimono: A Modern history - The gorgeous, vividly colored, and visually witty designs of the traditional Japanese garment referred to in modern times as kimono, things to wear, are the subject of this groundbreaking study.  Through her insightful analysis of textile design, fabrics, dyes, designers workshops and distribution systems, the late Terry Satsuki Milhaupt offers insights into the complex cultural and social history of modern Japan.  $29.00


Sun, Ming-Ju - Creative Haven: Japanese Kimono Designs - If you have joined in with the coloring craze and love kimonos here's one for you. More than 30 illustrations to color depict women in traditional garb enhanced by intricate prints of cherry blossoms, bamboo, birds, and other figures. Perforated pages are printed on one side only for easy removal and display.  $5.99






Sun, Ming-Ju - Traditional Japanese Fashion Paper Dolls - This book allows you to dress two female figures in a formal court dress of the Ashikaga period (1338-1573). It also includes kimonos with floral designs, a traditional Japanese bridal dress, modern formal robes. 16 full-color plates of costumes.  Who says paper dolls are only for children?  $6.95





Waddell, John - Kimono Revisited - This is a class that John has taught many times to many eager needlepointers. You can use his colors or be adventurous and choose your own and pick your canvas and have some fun learning 90 stitches and creating your own kimono to display. $30.00 ( Discount code: Heart17)




SPEAKING OF KIMONOS ... WHAT ABOUT GEISHAS?

The first thing I learned about geishas from Charlene was about the book, Geisha: A Life by Mineko Iwasaki. She highly recommended this book about these highly trained artistic women that have nothing to do with sex but with perfection. The word geisha means "women of art".  Their talents playing musical instruments. dancing, the tea ceremony take many years.  If you want to learn about this art and the life of a past top geisha this book is fascinating. Mineko tells all, the first Geisha to do so. Trained to become a geisha from the age of five, she would live among the other "women of art" in Kyoto's Gion Kobu district and practiced the ancient customs of Japanese entertainment. She was loved by kings, princes, military heroes, and wealthy statesmen alike. But even though she became one of the most prized geishas in Japan, Mineko wanted more: her own life. She retired at age of 29 years old.  Today she is about 70 years of age and her book reveals a little-known world, and an intimate glimpse into Japanese culture.  A classic!  I read it and loved it.  $17.00 


POTPOURRI OF NEW BOOKS

Burr, Trish - Whitework with Colour - Adding color to traditions whitework embroidery opens the door to a whole new world of creative possibilities. Exploring unusual combinations of hues, celebrated needle artist Trish Burr has created seventeen projects that will entice stitchers. Ranging from complete beginner to more advanced, her designs include a gorgeous zen poppy; a stunning sunrise over the ocean; and a pretty French country vase.  $24.95

Trish Burr taught herself embroidery and has become a world known needle artist and the author numerous highly successful books I have listed below.  The book above is her latest creation.  I'm already getting requests for it. 

Redoute's Finest Flowers in Embroidery - Trish has painstakingly recreated blooms from the paintings of 19th-Century botanical artist Pierre Joseph Redoute in exquisite embroidery. Using only the simpliest stitches, she provides instructions, illustrations and photos to take you step-by-step through stitching 17 beautiful blossoms roses, lilies, birds of paradise, dahlias, magnolias and more. $19.95


Long and Short Stitch Embroidery: A Collection of Flowers - Here Trish introduces her unique long and short-stitch needlepainting style of portraying flowers like a botanical painter. Fiver starter projects show how to create the illusion of brushwork in thread and use basic techniques, from preparing fabric and transferring designs to blocking and mounting. Sixteen easily achieved but challenging larger projects enable beginners and experts to bring to life meticulously detailed sunflowers, magnolias, bearded irises, and Icelandic poppy, roses, and more. With diagrams, full-sized templates, and stitch directions included.  $19.95

Crewel and Surface Embroidery: Inspirational Floral Designs - The 16 achievable projects are challenging but not overwhelming, decorative but also practical, with pleasing color schemes and clear step-by-step instructions. the skillful blending of wool, silk, and cotton guides the beginner and inspires the experienced stitcher to create this unique stile of embroidery. The numerous photos, illustrations, and row by-row color keys make following the projects an effortless task and a joy to stitch.  $24.95

Needle Painting Embroidery: Fresh Ideas for Beginners - In 15 projects organized in three levels, from novice to intermediate, Trish provides, easy-to-follow guidance on techniques for surface stitching that provide subtle shadings and a soft, paintlike blending of colors. Sections on materials, the long and short stitch, and helpful practice motifs lead to gorgeous projects like Burgundy Rosebuds, a Wild Pansy, and a Racquet-tailed Roller.  $21.95

Colour Confidence in Embroidery - How does color affect embroidery? How can it bring needlework to life? Discover the possibilities in this unique, in-depth exploration of color  in embroidery. From color selection and blending to choosing techniques for surface and counted thread embroidery projects. More than 200 stitched examples with DMC thread keys, plus color schemes and projects such as roses, fruits, and birds will inspire stitchers.  $34.95


Miniature Needle Painting Embroidery: Vintage Portraits, Florals and Birds - Small, embroidered "paintings" can have all the detail, form, and beauty of a larger piece except they're much quicker to stitch. These fresh and appealing designs capture the pretty, romantic images typical of the Victorian and post-Victorian eras. All the projects which include traditional portraits, birds, and flowers have detailed thread diagrams, and easy-to-follow instructions teach the basic stitches.  $24.95



Bolton, Janet - Fabric Pictures - To call what Janet Bolton makes with fabric 'patchwork' doesn't do justice to her creations - hers are images, pictures that capture fragments of an imagination that can strike anywhere, at any time.  She shows you how to create beautiful pictures on fabric. Taking you through her special method, she will guide you to find the inspiration around you and teach you how to turn your creativity into a textile project and develop your personal 'voice'.  The book is divided into two main sections - the first on how to find inspiration, the second on how to put your ideas into practice, complete with a step by step example that shows you every stage of construction from beginning to end. Just like in her workshops, Janet's guidance in the book is friendly, reassuring and inspiring.  $29.99


Bolton, Janet - Janet Bolton's Textile Pictures - Janet pictures the English countryside and small life scenes as if she was taking instantaneous photos with tenderness and sensibility in her simple style. Janet's original designs illustrate the whole book. Hard Cover.  142 pages.  $64.00






Harampolis, Alethea - Branches and Blooms: A Step-by-step Guide to Creating Magical Centerpieces, Wreaths, Garlands, and Other Unexpected Arrangements - The book provides more than 100 step-by-step project to make with flowering and leafy branches. In the spring, readers can create a cherry blossom boughs or a centerpiece of lilacs and olive branches. In the summer, a garland features sage with pomegranates and citrus-colored strawflowers. In autumn wreaths are made out of magnolias and rosemary. Winter highlights cedar, pine, and juniper, yielding unexpected table settings and new wreath shapes. Also included are hundreds of step-by-step photos, as well as tutorials covering basic techniques, sourcing, and care information.  $19.95






Healey, Elizabeth - Stitch, Fabric and Thread - This creative book encourages people to experiment with stitch, fabric and thread to create their own unique textiles. It is a treasure trove of over 40 inspiring practical exercises, a rich and creative exploration of fabric and stitch. The exercises draw inspiration from around the world; crate corded works of art inspired by Milton Glaser's iconic Bob Dylan album cover; create bold embroidered African masks; layer up and cut away to create Mola applique; use bleach and fabric paint to create Aboriginal dreamtime lizards; create knotted works of art inspired by ancient Mayan counting systems; embroider varsity cross-stitch letters or try out decorative Japanese book binding. Alternatively, try a host of other techniques such as quilting, printing, dyeing, couching tumbled crockery, creating pleats and puckers and needlelace.  Packed with stitch galleries and bursting with slow sewing ideas, the book also contains behind the stitches' features: illuminating insights into sewing movements such as Boro textiles, Gee's Bend quilting and Dorset buttons.  424.95

McWhinney, Jenny - Thread Painting: Bunnies in My Garden - Thread painting is the term for using colored thread embroider to create artistic, dimensional images. Using Jenny McWhinney's directions, even novice embroiderers can recreate 12 delightful rabbit-themed designs including bunnies watering and potting plants, raking leaves, harvesting carrots, gathering honey, and picking apples. Tracing patterns and stitch diagrams are included for each, and 100 color photos document the projects in various stages.  $19.95

Naumann, Sara - How to Make Resin Jewellery - Well-known crafter Sara Naumann shows you just how easy and quick resin jewellery is to make, using minimal equipment and readily available products, and provides over 50 fabulous projects for you to try. You can add numerous items to the resin to achieve different effects. In addition, you can also immerse various items in the resin before it cures, such as dried flowers and leaves, fathers, shells, beads and charms, or try glitter, colored inks, nail polish.  $19.95


Kato, Reiko - Garden Party - After the resounding success of "Les Petites Histories de Sue and Billy (Small Stories of Sue and Billy), "Heartful Quilts", and "My Dream Quilts" Reiko has written a second sweet and enchanting book. It is full of her friendly characters and of little pictures going through the seasons.  $48.00







Quiltmania - Mosaique d'etoffes - 44 color pictures of an outstanding collection of ancient French quilts from the end of the 19th to beginning of 20th century.  $22.00










Quiltmania - My Little Japan - We have gathered together almost 100 photos from the 2015 International Great Quilt Festival of Tokyo. Included in these photos are meetings with artists and collectors, and a lot of snapshots of our wanderings in Tokyo and Kyoto, Everything we love about Japan!  $29.99




Ray, Aimee - Patchwork Embroidery -Patchwork isn't just for quilts! It's also perfect for making clothing, toys, housewares, and more. Add embroidery to the mix, and the possibilities are endless. Bestselling author Aimee Ray has whipped up 21 great gift ideas that showcase both techniques. They all feature her popular signature motifs, and include place mats, napkins, table covers, pillows, banners and even baby items. $17.95


Russo, Neysa - Needle Felted Tapestries: Make Your Own Woolen Masterpieces - From simple mug rugs to Renaissance-style tapestry wall hangings, 16 charming projects lead fiber lovers on a journey to discover the art of needle felting. Felt artist Neysa Russo shares her years of experience with felt and felt design so that you can make your own felted masterpiece.  Create a colorful coaster, a handy needle and pin case, charming table runner, wall hanging and more.  She covers the tools needed, materials and techniques and finishing for both wet felting and needle felting, how to add color and dimension and more.  $21.95




Sloan, Pat - The Splendid Sampler: 100 Spectacular Blocks from a Community of Quilters - Join the Splendid Sampler community with a comprehensive collection of 6 inch blocks created and shared by more than 80 of today's most innovative quilt designers.  A number of the six-inch blocks are shown in two colorways for twice the creativity. $27.99




Mystery Corner

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Archer, Winnie - Kneaded to Death (Bread Shop Mystery) - Struggling photographer Ivy Culpepper has lots of soul-searching to do since returning to seaside Santa Sofia, California. This is, until the thirty-six year old enters a bread making class at Yeast of Eden. Whether it's the aroma of fresh conchas in the oven, or her instant connection with owner Olaya Solis, Ivy just knows the  missing ingredients in her life are hidden among the secrets of Olaya's bakery. But Ivy's spirits crumble when a missing classmate is suddenly discovered dead in her car. Even more devastating, the prime suspect is Olaya Solis herself. Doubting the woman could commit such a crime, Ivy embarks on a murder investigation of her own to prove her innocence and seize the real killer. As she follows a deadly trail of crumbs around town, Ivy must trust her gut like never before or someone else could be toast! $7.99


Blackmore, Stephanie - Murder Wears White - Mallory Shepard's wedding planning business is off to a shaky start when a member of the bridal family drops dead at a food tasting. But what Mallory didn't plan on is the bride's aunt being poisoned at the wedding tasting and her perfect venue becomes engaged in her own investigation she learns the man convicted of the crime may not be guilt. Now she has two crimes to solve before the bride walks down the aisle - but a killer has other plans to ensure that Mallory forever holds her peace.  $7.99


Blake, Bethany - Death by Chocolate Lab - Pet sitter Daphne Templeton has a soft spot for every stray and misfit who wanders into the quaint, lakeside, village of Sylvan Creek. But even Daphne doesn't like arrogant, womanizing Steve Beamus, the controversial owner of Blue ribbon K-9 Academy. When Steven turns up dead during a dog agility trial, Daphne can think of a long list of people with motives for homicide and so can the police. Unfortunately, at the top of the list is Daphne's sister, Steve's latest wronged girlfriend. Daphne sets out to clear her sister's name and find Axis, Steve's prize-winning chocolate Labrador, who went missing the night of Steve's death. Aided by Socrates, her taciturn basset hound, and a hyperactive one-eared Chihuahua named Artie Daphne runs afoul of Detective Jonathan Black, an enigmatic newcomer to town, who has no appreciation for Daphne's unorthodox sleuthing.  $7.99

Bradford, Laura - The Silence of the Flans - Baker Winnie Johnston does her best work when the heat is on. As owner of the Emergency Dessert Squad, she has a deft touch in the kitchen and a soft spot for lost causes. So when her business professor beau, Jay Morgan , expresses misgivings over having to fail one of his fourth grade students, Winnie cooks up a sweet solution. She'll offer an extra credit opportunity in exchange for a little help with her growing business. But when her protégé's first dessert delivery poisons a student journalist, the publicity threatens to burn Winnie's business to a crisp. Now the entrepreneur-turned-detective must uncover the ingredients behind a recipe for murder before she crumbles under pressure.  $7.99

Cahoon, Lynn - Fatality by Firelight - To kick off a winter writing retreat, Cat and her handyman boyfriend, Seth, escort the aspiring authors to a nearby ski resort, hoping some fresh cold air will wake up their creative muses. But instead of hitting the slopes, they hit the bar and before long, a tipsy romance novelist named Christina is keeping herself warm with a local ski bum who might have neglected to tell her about his upcoming wedding. Next thing Cat knows, her uncle, the town sheriff, informs her that the young man's been found dead in a hot tub and Christina shows up crying and covered in blood. Now between a murder mystery, the theft of a rare Hemingway edition, and the arrival of a black-clad stranger in snowy Aspen Hills, Cat's afraid everything's going downhill.  $7.99

Childs, Laura - Devonshire Scream - Catering a trunk show at heart's Desire Jewelry is a shining achievement for Theodosia and the Indigo Tea Shop. After all, slew of jewelers, museum curators, and private collectors will be there to sip some of Theo's best blends. Unfortunately, the party is crashed by a gang of masked muggers who steal the precious gems on display, and then disappear almost as quickly as they arrived leaving a dead body in their wake. Theo gets involved in the case after her friend Brooke, aunt of the victim and owner of  Heart's Desire, begs for help in figuring out who committed the brutal burglary. though the FBI believes this smash and grab is the work of an international gang of jewel thieves, Theo is convinced that the felon is someone much closer to home.  $7.99

Davis, Krista - Mission Impawsible - Davis has created a town that any pet would love as much as their owners do. And they won't let a little thing like murder spoil their enjoyment.  Murder, mystery, a bit of romance and seriously pets!  Welcome to Wagtail, Virginia.  $7.99








Fluke, Joanne - Wedding Cake Murder - Hannah is thrilled to be marrying Ross Barton, her college crush. And her excitement only grows when she learns he'll be able to join her on her trip to New York City for the Food Channel's dessert chef contest. they get a taste of the Big Apple before Hannah wins the Hometown Challenge and the producers bring all the contestants to Lake Eden to tape the remainder of the show. It's nerve-wracking enough being judged by Alain Duqesne, a celebrity chef with a nasty reputation. But it's even more chilling to find him stabbed to death in the Lake Eden Inn's walk-in cooler before he's even had a chance to taste Hannah's Butterscotch Sugar Cookies! Now Hannah has not only lost her advantage, she'll have to solve a mystery with more layers than a five-tiered wedding cake.  $7.99

Furlong, Susan - War and Peach - Nola Mae Harper is too busy restocking the jars of preserves and chutney flying off the shelves of her shop, Peachy Keen, to keep up with the demand. Lots of gossip about the upcoming race for mayor and local farmer Clem Rogers claims he has a bombshell that could take small business owner Margie Price out of the running. But before Clem can reveal his juicy secret at the debate, his actual barn goes up in flames with him inside of it. The town casts it vote against Margie, but Nola isn't convinced the hardworking woman is capable of murder.  $7.99


James, Miranda - No Cats Allowed - Mississippi librarian Charlie Harris and his Maine Coon cat Diesel are on their guard. Oscar Reilly, the new director at the Athena College library, is on a mission to cut costs and has set his sights on the archive and rare book collection. Reilly's also out to replace Charlie's fiery friend Melba with someone younger, but his biggest offense is declaring all four-legged creatures banned from the stacks. With enemies aplenty, the suspect list is long when Reilly's body is discovered in the library, but incriminating evidence throws suspicion on Melba. Charlie is convinced that his friend is no murderer, especially when he catches sight of a menacing stranger lurking around the library. Now he and Diesel will have to read between the lines, before Melba's shelved under G for guilt.  $7.99

Lane, Kelly - Cold Pressed Murder - Its the pits for the attendees of the annual Farm Family Fare in Abundance, Georgia, when olive oiler Eva Knox finds herself in the middle of a murder case. This weekend event consists of two days of tours, exhibition, music, tastings, and, most important, cooking demonstrations with celebrity chefs from the Chow Network. The enthusiasm begins to dribble away after one of the star chefs goes missing and is later found dead in the back of a refrigerated truck. The scandal gets messier after the police discover that Eva's sister Daphne spent the night with the victim right before he died, making her the prime suspect for his murder.  $7.99

Logan, Kylie - Gone with the Twins - The League of Literary Ladies is currently enjoying Margaret Mitchell's sage of the south, GONE WITH THE WIND. But there's one situation on South Bass Island that they wish would simply blow over. Kidnapped as teenagers, the children of a famous movie star are now media darlings after a miraculous escape. What's next for the celebrity twins? They're opening an over-the-top B and B called Tara on South Bass Island, and frankly, they don't given a dame about the competition including Bea Cartwright's own beloved inn. The other member of the League Chandra, Kate, and Luella are turning scarlet. But when local realtor Vivian Frisk is found murdered and the suspects include Chandra, who lost her beau to the frisky Vivian, the Ladies rally to her defense. They may have to skim a few chapters of the Civil War soap opera and focus on bringing justice to the island they call home.  $7.99 

McConnon, Maggie - Bel of the Brawl: A Belfast McGrath Mystery - Beth McGrath loves her work as a wedding chef. But with her latest event set to take place at Shamrock Manor, she just can't seem to catch a break. The Casey wedding has left her with ten thousand greenbacks in the hole, a missing staff member, and a dead groom. Now in between Guinness beers and pub brawls, Bel must find a way to crack the case - even though what she should be cracking are eggs into the batter of the wedding cake. A good Irish girl's work is never done. What begins as local town fodder is turning into more. With the Casey family spiraling out of control, and billable McGrath hours being lost by the minute, Bel is definitely in too deep. She even barely has time to obsess over her new boyfriend and her own unsolved mystery from years ago! Time is running out on getting the next couple down the aisle before the so-called luck of the Irish takes a deadly turn.  $7.99

Shelton, Paige - The Cracked Spine (Scottish Bookshop Mystery #1) - American bibliophile Delaney Nichols is about to take Scotland and legions of cozy mystery readers-by storm! She takes a job at the legendary bookshop filled with special editions and rare manuscripts, it's a house of biblio delights one as eclectic as those who work there; the spirited and ever-curious Rosie, along with her tiny dog, Hector; a nineteen year old thespian named Hamlet and Edwin, the big boss, who Delaney likes but but just can't get a read on. Then there's Tom, the bartender from across the street, whose gentle brogue pulls at Delany's heart strings and who can rock a kilt like none other. $7.99

Tatem Clover - Blown Away (Kite Shop Mystery #1) - Emmy is finally living her dream. She's moved to the coastal town of Rock Point, Oregon, and is starting a kite business, Strings Attached features her own unique designs, inspired by everything from Picasso to Matisse's colorful cutouts. Her spirits are soaring sky-high the morning of the grand opening until she stumbles upon a dead man washed up on the beach. The body belongs to local chef Miles Logan, and the gash across his chest indicates he's been murdered. The sheriff suspects Emmy's best friend, Avery, who used to date the chelf. Emmy is sure Avery would never hurt anyone, but her pal doesn't have an alibi for the night of the murder. With Avery's freedom and the fate of her kite shop up in the air, Emmy takes it upon herself to follow the string of clues and solve the murder before the real killer takes flight."  $7.99



Hope you enjoyed your visit to Ruth Kern Books

If this is your first time with us I'd like to introduce you to our company. We've been in business for 24 years and have set up needlework bookshops at both the ANG and EGA seminars and for other needlework groups as well as having sites on the web.
Can't find a certain book? Give us a call Monday thru Saturday at 602-943-0738 and if you need to leave a message I'm probably helping Mark, my husband, with M.S. or running books to the post office. I will return your call ASAP. Or you can e-mail me at rkern3@mindspring.com. To reach us by mail: Ruth Kern Books 7235 N. 9th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 850921. Love to hear from you.

IMPORTANT: Don't forget to find the discount code hidden in this blog that gives you a 20% discount on any new book you order. 
Have a wonderful January/February and 2017.

IMPORTANT : January Blog will be joined together with February issue for one large issue on Korea/Japan and much more.  It will be available on February 14th 2017.  I have been sick most of January but my lungs are clearing (still coughing). At least no more fevers.  Can't wait to finish this issue.  My friend Charlene has been to Japan twice and now to Korea too.  Discovered some really unusual things from interviewing her, I, for one, never knew. I'm hoping you will really enjoy that issue.  Ruth


                  DECEMBER 2016 BLOG
 
       May all your days be happy and bright!
                              

December is another misnamed month. It is a Latin word that means ten for the tenth month as in the Roman Empire. Oh, well I guess it is too late to change it now. BUT I still agree with the Romans that March with spring arriving should be the first month of the year.

December has a beautiful gemstone: turquoise is known for its lovely colors that range from powdery blue to a greenish robin's egg blue. In ancient times it was Persia that had this sky blue stone and the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt but today the United States supplies the most turquoise with Arizona leading the pack in production by value, as well as quality. That is why turquoise is much used by Native Americans in their jewelry.  It is a softer stone so be careful in exposing it to direct sunlight, perfumes, natural oils and solvents. 

December's flower surprised me. I thought it would be the  lovely pontisetta but I was wrong. It is the lovely white narcissus. During Roman birthday celebrations family and friends offered congratulations and brought gifts and many times included gemstone jewelry of turquoise.The meaning of the December birth flower is respect, modesty, and faithfulness.  

I hope you enjoyed running through the months, their meanings, flowers, and gemstones this year. Best of Everything!



Meet Barbara Jackson - A Crewel Jewel

When I opened up the latest issue #92 of INSPIRATIONS I immediately flipped through the beautifully illustrated magazine as I always do the minute it arrives I saw a familiar face -Barbara Jackson. I smiled and flashed back to meeting this delightful needleworker, designer, and business woman.

I met Barbara years ago at a National ANG seminar busy setting up the boutique with her helpers while Mark (my husband) were busy setting up the bookstore. Every year for many years we'd meet again at another national seminar. Lots of hard work but fun.  I admired her energy and passion for needlework and loved hearing her stories about going to The Royal School of Needlework in England for classes.  After three years of summer study Barbara graduated this prestigious school "with distinction".

She went on to create her own crewel designs and carried Pearsall's silk. They became very popular at her boutiques.  The most memorable seminar was in 2001.  The seminar was packed - over 1000 participants - some from many other places in world.  It was heavenly with a great time had by all.  Mark and I packed up and left the hotel on September 8th. Barbara left on September 9th. As she drove out of the hotel from the underground parking area the whole building shook.  A plane had hit the Capital Building. Mark and I were at his sister's in Xenia, Ohio eating breakfast and watched with horror as the second plane hit the other Trade Center tower.  We hardly spoke the entire trip to my brother's house in Metamora, Illinois - our ears were glued to the radio.  I later discovered many of our needleworker friends spent as much as another seven days at the hotel since airports were closed. How can we ever forget that?



Today Barbara is very busy designing, teaching and from what I read from the INSPIRATIONS she is working on her language skills in French and reading 18th century history. as well as designing more great crewel patterns and kits. I urge you to say hi to Barbara on her beautiful website: www.tristanbooks.com and see what she is up to.
 

Some of Barbara's Crewelwork

      

I hope you got this issue of INSPIRATIONS so you can read the entire article.  We do carry Inspirations by the issue or by subscription.

GREAT CREWEL TITLES AND A LITTLE CREWEL HISTORY  

                         Another of Barbara's crewel designs

This is a bit of Barbara's introduction to crewel: "In early America, crewel was worked on plain weave linen with a handful of colorful wool, while in England, Jacobean crewel found its home on study linen twill with a wider spectrum of hues. ..... But what should come in the 21st century, but with its abundance with its abundance of wool yarns, silks and overdyed threads."  As she writes, she found mixing traditional designs with those subtly dyed threads 'intoxicating!'  Join Barbara in the fun and learn more from the books listed below.



Amor, Shelagh - Crewel Embroidery: A Practical Guide - Follow an expert instructor's special techniques, starting with the simplest stitches, from stem and chain to French knot and trellis filling. Expand your repertoire to more than 100 variations, with instructions on transfer methods, color choices, and color schemes. The process unfolds, from selecting your designs to final framing and finishing. Put it all together with 10 original floral projects for clothing, soft furnishings, and framed wall hangings.  $19.95


Blomkamp, Hazel - Crewel Intentions: Fresh Ideas for Jacobean Embroidery - This book continues the concept of using non-traditional techniques and materials in crewel or Jacobean embroidery. It showcases four large projects, each with an accompanying small project similar in technique, and shows needleworkers how to be creative with threads, alternative stitches and beads even using patterns similar to tartan and houndstooth check. Every project is clearly explained with ste-by-step instructions and lots of photos. $29.95

Blomkamp, Hazel - Crewel Twists: Fresh Ideas for Jacobean Embroidery - Hazel uses a wide selection of materials to update techniques and inspire embroiderers to explore while working loosely within the confines of crewel work styles. She show us how to be creative with fabric, threads, beads, and alternative stitches, borrowing techniques from other forms of needlework, and still producing a product that is typical of the crewel or Jacobean style of embroidery such as including beads and metal threads, monochrome embroidery using threads and beads within the same color range, techniques employed in needle-made laces with designs defined by means of texture, and more traditional embroidery including shading and satin stitch and the many variations of trellis couching to provide texture and interest.  $29.95




Burr, Trish - Crewel and Surface Embroidery: Inspirational Floral Designs - The 16 achievable projects are challenging but not overwhelming, decorative but also practical, with pleasing color schemes and clear step-by-step instructions. The skillful blending of wool, silk, and cotton guides the beginner and inspires the experienced stitcher to create this unique style of embroidery. The numerous photos, illustrations, and row-by-row color keys make the projects an effortless task and a joy to stitch.  $24.95


Gardner, Sue - A to Z Crewel Embroidery - Includes step-by-step photographs and invaluable hints for creating original designs in styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, each one accompanied by comprehensive information about the wools, fabrics and equipment required and a multitude of tips to help you get started. Shows 45 stitches and techniques.  $19.95 



McDonald, Jaqui - Essential Stitch Guide to Crewelwork - In this invaluable book, one of a series of books on different techniques of embroidery, this author takes you through detailed instructions on how to work basic techniques, stitches and more. Approximately 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 in size. Lots of color.  $21.95







Shaughnessy, Katherine - New Crewel: The Motif Collection - This author takes a modern approach to crewel embroidery.  This is her stunning collection of 30 motifs in circular patterns using five new stitches, and ten inspirational projects. This includes photos and color diagrams of each motif, along with how-to-illustrations plus a CD of the motifs for easy download. $16.95




POTPOURRI OF NEW BOOKS

Collinge, Dr. Annette - Embroidered Treasures: Flowers - This beautiful book showcases the Embroiderer's Guild's huge collection of embroidered flowers through the ages. These wonderful embroidered treasures are as varied as wall hangings, children's dresses, bridal bags and samplers, some of which date back to the seventeenth century. The images are shown with extended captions giving the country of origin, age, size and technique used to make them. $35.00

Epstein, Nicky - Knitting in Circles - Circular patterns for sweaters, bags, hats, afghans and more. 100 patterns and twenty projects from cable to lace to rich color work. Nicky has authored many, many gorgeous knitting books and this one is great too.  $24.00







House, Lizzy - 1001 Peeps: Five Magical Projects Book - In this beautiful book the author has taken 5 would be stand alone patterns and put them into one place, for a better value and a better product. With incredible photography, winning designs, and incredible quilting, this book is sure to inspire and enable you. Book includes 4 quilts and 1 large crewel embroidery. $34.95




Ishii, Sachiyo - 20 to Make:- Mini Knitted Charms- Charms and dangles are popular accessories, used to decorate purses, bags, mobile phones, and so on. Sachiyo provides patterns for 20 different designs - all in her distinctive, cute and fun style. All the projects are really quick and easy to make - each one can be made in just 15 minutes! They are great for using up scraps of yarn. There are ice cream cones, beach huts, strawberries and mushrooms, as well as love hearts, owls, cat and mouse, and stars, to name a few.  $9.95



Pickett, Jan - Decorated Lettering - This book contains essential calligraphic instruction and a myriad of ideas for decorating your lettering. There is instruction and inspiration for a huge range of styles, techniques and media by this master calligrapher.  $19.95








Polley, Sandra - The Knitted Teddy Bear - This is a serious teddy bear is destined for an heirloom collection. Inside this book are dozens of patterns for his/her unique clothing. $10.00








Redmond, Wen - Wen Redmond's Digital Fiber Art - Compose, create, and print innovative art quilts starting from your own digital photographs - even those from your phone! Well-known fiber artist Wen Redmond starts with the tools, and equipment you'll need - any imaging-editing software and a standard inkjet printer - and teaches you to alter images, print them on a variety of fibers, and accentuate them with stitching.  $29.95


Search Press Classics - A to Z of Sewing for Smockers - Part of the bestselling A-Z series of specialist needlework books, this how-to focuses on garment construction for smocking enthusiasts. Presented in an easy to use style, this book is overflowing with hundreds of step-by-step photos and invaluable hints for creating beautiful heirloom garments from blouses to bridesmaids dresses.  $19.95



Search Press Classics - A to Z of Wool Embroidery - Clear step-by-step instructions lead the reader through the stitches themselves; and beautiful designs created by readers of Inspirations magazine in Australia aid the needleworker in putting the techniques into practice. A handy guide for beginners and accomplished embroiderers.  $19.95



Stratford, Sue - Knit Me, Dress Me, Love Me - This book taps into the market for cute, easy knits with a vintage feel, including knitting patterns for seven different cute animal toys, - a rabbit, a kitten, a mouse, a puppy, a panda, a teddy and a monkey, each approximately 8 inches high. All are easy and quick to knit. Each animal is accompanied by a mini knitted version of itself that is kept in the little shoulder bag or backpack that each toy carried. There are patterns for the outfits in which to dress the toys - most of them are knitted and some sewn garments - all one size, and designed to fit every animal, plus the bags and other accessories. The chapters are split into themes such as Out to Play, Picnic time, Time for School, with clothes appropriate for each theme, including pajamas, outdoor clothes, summer dresses, school uniform and so on, with added accessories. Readers are encouraged to use up scraps of yarn and fabric or re-using materials from another item long since outgrown so the toy has special significance.  $19.95



Sweet, Amee K. - Elegant Soutache - The versatile soutache cord, in its many variations, combined with beads to become a new elegant art form to the most elegant jewelry.  $30.00






This book is not new but back in print!

Home Sweet Home an Embroidered Work Book - Country Bumpkin -  This is one of my favorite books and according to past sales one of needleworkers favorite too.  This is a delightful workbox in the shape of a whimsical English cottage filled with lovely accessories and covered in an exquisite garden of stitches. This workbox is sure to become not just a treasured heirloom, but a valuable accompaniment to every stitching project. The pages are filled with delightful photography, gorgeous diagrams and features detailed instructions for the embroidery, construction and more.  $34.95



Most Requested Needlework Books of 2016

Can't leave 2016 without remembering the most requested needlework books of this past year. With all the hustle and bustle of 2016 maybe we should slow down and review what we learned and what we accomplished.  Happy New Year! 



Arthur, Sandra - Can Do Hairdos: Techniques and Threads and Stitches for hair - This book hasn't been out very long but definitely reached the most requested lists.  The book is 5 1/2 x 8, spiralbound and color photos of different styles.  $25.00










Baird, Carolyn Hedge - Teeny Tiny Needlepoint Stitches - This is my favorite cover on a needlepoint book this year and the inside doesn't disappoint either. If you need stitches perfect for small spaces on your canvas this is it!  $30.00


Boren, Michael and Carol Lake - Twisty Stitches I: String Art for Needlepoint - This was the first book in this series, is a large spiralbound book with an entire study on Amadeus through Jessica Stitches with step-by-step photos. Since this is A to J there is a second volume out.  $58.00





Browne, Clare - English Medieval Embroidery: Opus Anglicanium - In medieval Europe, embroidered textiles were indispensable symbols of wealth and power. Owing to their quality, complexity and magnificence, English embroiderers enjoyed international demand and can be traced in Continental sources as "opus anglicanium" (English work). This sumptuously illustrated book draws on the new research and detailed photos to offer an introduction to that design, production, and use. Essays by leading experts explain the embroideries artistic and social context, while catalogue entries examine individual masterpieces.  $89.95  (discount code: 16dec)


Cole, Alison - Stumpwork Masterclass - This was the number one requested book this year. This gorgeous color book by Alison takes you through everything you need to know about doing stumpwork and more.  In fact, all of her books are constantly requested and I distribute them here in the states.  I couldn't be prouder of that.  $49.95







G., Sharon - It's About  Darn Time: Over 125 beautiful darning stitches and hints - If you every wanted to learn about darning stitches in needlepoint or improve what you already know - here's the book for you. She divides the book into eight chapters: Darning 101, Horizontal Darning, Open Lacy Paterns, Mixed Darning, Darning Patterns, Darning with a Bead, Diagonal Darning, and Zigzags. The graphs are large and easy to use.  $49.95



Gone Stitching - Got Stitches: Multi-Layered Stitches for Needlepoint - This book has been around for a while but is still requested. All the graphs are showed in color and is categorized by the number of threads per stitch. Whether you have two, three, or four different threads they have the perfect stitch for your project. For the adventurous stitcher, they have also included chapters on trame and trellis stitches.  $29.95



Oliveria, Elaine - Stitch Winter - The author of two other best sellers: Stitch Landscapes and Ins and Outs, brought us a new winner this year: Stitch Winter that was created to expand your abilities to take risk with color, threads and embellishments of course featuring winter themes.  Tips for working the graphs into a particular area. The graphs are large and clear.  $48.95






Wilford, Judy - Embroidered Landscapes: Hand Embroidery, Layering and Surface Stitching - Design and recreate realistic hand embroidered landscapes, from coastlines to deserts, escarpments to plains. This author's stunning process combines different genres, textiles, traditional stiches, and embroidery styles. Part I covers the materials and equipment, lays out a simple landscape, and demonstrates background layering and surface stitching. Part II contains a range of projects, each developing and extending the various techniques. $29.95



Witney Antiques - Now Whilst My Hands are Thus Employed: Three Centuries of Historic Samples - This full color catalog illustrates around fifty samplers. Many of these pieces are from private collections and were for sale this past summer. These samplers cut across all levels of society embracing both the affluent and the poor and stands as a testament to the skill and perseverance of the young and talented teachers.  $35.00






MYSTERY CORNER

 

Meet Kristi Abbott

POP CORN ANYONE???  
Kristi and I have something in common - popcorn!  Every Sunday night I might a huge pot of popcorn, add salt and butter and I'm in heaven! Along with a large salad and a glass of red wine I spend the evening writing and noshing!  My little dog, Buddy moves in next to me and wants his share of popcorn.  I am going to try some of Kristi's popcorn recipes for fun.  Kristi aka Eileen Rendahl and Eileen Carr was born in Dayton, Ohio, but now lives in northern California. Wherever she is I look forward to her next popcorn mystery.

Kernel of Truth (Popcorn Shop Mystery #1) - Opening a gourmet popcorn shop was never on Rebecca Anderson's bucket list. But after a failed marriage to a celebrity chef, she's ready for her life to open up and expand. She has returned to her hometown of Grand Lake, Ohio, with her pop-corn-loving poodle Sprocket, to start a new business -naturally called POPS. As a delicious bonus, Cordella 'Coco' Bittles, a close family friend who has always been like a grandmother to Rebecca, owns the chocolate shop next door, and the two are thinking of combining their businesses. But when Coco's niece, Jessica, discovers her on the floor of her chocolate shop, those dreams go up in smoke. The local sheriff thinks Coco was a victim of a robbery gone wrong, but Rebecca isn't so sure. As suspects start popping up all over, Rebecca is determined to turn up the heat and bring the killer to justice in a "jiffy"!  $7.99

Pop Goes the Murder (Popcorn Shop Mystery #2) - Despite Rebecca Anderson's best efforts to distance herself from her ex-husband, the guy keeps popping up. When Antoine offers to feature her breakfast bars and popcorn fudge on his popular cooking show, she suspects he's once again trying to butter her up but the TV exposure for her gourmet popcorn shop, POPS is too good to turn down. Things take a shocking turn when the crew comes to Grand Lake to film in her shop, and Rebecca discovers Antoine's assistant electrocuted in a hotel bathtub. Now the police want Antoine to come clean. Her ex may be a pain, but he's no killer. So Rebecca decides to bag the real culprit. If she isn't careful, however, she may be the next one getting burned.  $7.99

For those wanting more than popcorn here are a few more tasty mysteries.



Alexander, Ellie - Fudge and Jury - It's almost spring in Ashland, Oregon, and the town is preparing for the Shakespeare and the annual Chocolate Festival. Business is cookin' at Torte, and the store is expanding as Jules team whips up crepes filled with mascarpone cheese and dark chocolate. Torte stands a chance of being this year's confectionery belle of the ball! Life couldn't be sweeter unless murder taints the batter.  Evan Rowe, of Confections Couture, makes a chocolate fountain that would put Willy Wonka to shame, and his truffles are to die for literally? Yes, the world-renowned chocolatier has just turned up dead right after sampling a slice of Jules decadent four-layer chocolate cake. Now all eyes are on Jules as she tried to find the mysterious ingredient in her own recipe. Can she sift out the truth before another contestant bites the buttercream?  $7.99

McKinley, John - Assault and Beret (Hat Shop Mystery #5) - This has been a N.Y. Times bestselling series. Londoner milliner Vivian Tremont and her American cousin and partner, Svarlett Parker, tip their caps to their beloved shop of Portobello Road in Notting Hill and set off for Paris, where Viv can't wait to teach a hat-making class. But she has another reason to travel to the City of Light; to find the man she impulsively eloped with years ago and have their marriage annulled.  William Graham is not only handsome and charming, but he also has a glamorous job as an insurance investigator who works with priceless pieces of art, most recently a small Renoir that has been discovered in a junk shop. But when both Will and the masterpiece suddenly disappear, it's up to the ladies from London to follow the trail of clues, They'll need to hold on to their chapeaux, however, because someone is a master in the art of deception.  $7.99

Mugavero, Liz - Custom Baked Murder - (Pawsitively Organic Mysteries) - Kristin Stan Connor gladly turned tail on her high-flying job and moved to a quaint New England town to sell organic pet treats. But with her nose for solving murders, there is no such thing as a quiet life. Summer is winding down in Frog Ledge, Connecticut, but Stan's love life and career are both heating up nicely. In between planning her new pet patisserie and café, Stan is setting into living-in-bliss with sexy pub owner Jake McGee. Love is on the menu for Stan's mom, Patricia, too, who's engaged to Frog Ledge's mayor, Tony Falco. Mayor Falco's dogged ambition isn't popular with locals, but it's his executive coach, Eleanor Chang, who's inspired a dangerous grudge. When Eleanor is found dead, there's a whole pack of suspect to chose from. Stan has first-hand experience of Eleanor's unsavory business tactics. But finding out who forced her to take a fatal plunge off the corporate ladder means unearthing some shady secrets and a killer who's too close for comfort. Includes gourmet pet food recipes.  $7.99

Page, Katherine Hall - The Body in the Wardrobe: A Faith Fairchild Mystery) - Attorney Sophie Maxwell has come to Savannah to be with her new husband, Will. But nothing throws cold water on a hot relationship faster than a dead body. Worse for Sophie, no one believes the body she knows she saw is real, Will is spending an awful lot of time in Atlanta on a case he claims is urgent, and she's been tasked with house hunting for them with his former sweetheart, who Sophie can't help but suspect wishes Sophie would return to her Yankee roots! Fortunately, Sophie has a good friend in Faith Fairchild. With teenage Amy being bullied by mean girls and husband Tom contemplating a major life change that will affect all the Fairchilds, Faith is eager for distraction in the form of some sleuthing. In between discussions of newlywed  agita, surprising Savannah customs and , of course, fabulous low country food, Faith and Sophie will pair up to unmask a killer.  $7.99

Ross, Barbara - Iced Under (Maine Clambake Mysteries) - Inside the mystery package is an enormous black diamond necklace that once belonged to Julia's great-grandmother who disappeared in the 1920s. who could have sent it and why? Julia's search for clues takes her on a perilous journey through her mother's recent unexplained death of Jacqueline's long-lost cousin Hugh who'd been missing and presumed drowned for more than forty years. To protect her mother's inheritance, Julia must fend of a small army of feuding relatives, solve the mystery surrounding Hugh's demise, and get back home before the next Maine's blizzard buries them all.  $7.99


Hope you enjoyed your visit with Ruth Kern Books

If this is your first time with us I'd like to introduce you to our company. We've been in business for 24 years and have set up needlework bookshops at both the ANG and EGA seminars and for other needlework bookshops as well as having sites on the web.  

Can't find a certain book? Give us a call Monday thru Saturday at 602-943-0738 and if you need to leave a message I'm probably helping Mark, my husband with M.S. or running books to the post office. I will return your call ASAP. Or you can e-mail at rkern3@mindspring.com. To reach us by mail: Ruth Kern Books 7235 N. 9th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 8502. Always love to hear from you all.

IMPORTANT!!! Don't forget to find the discount code hidden in this blog that gives you a 20% discount on any new book you order.

Happy Holidays. I'll see you in January of next year!